/PRNewswire/ -- To address ongoing health disparities and hardships encountered by millions of American families, the men and women of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, (BCBSGA) and its corporate foundation, proudly continued the company's tradition of caring for the people it serves and the health of our communities by contributing $1,279,779 to philanthropic and civic organizations throughout Georgia in 2010.
BCBSGA's community efforts for 2010 were highlighted by a $226,003 contribution from its own employees that supported hundreds of community-based non-profit organizations throughout Georgia. Through its annual Associate Giving Campaign, BCBSGA employees directed their giving to their choice among numerous health-related 501(c)(3) organizations. The funds pledged received a 50 percent match from the parent company's Foundation, increasing the total to $339,004.
"Our associates work hard every day to provide health care benefits to more than 2.5 million people throughout the state," said Morgan Kendrick, president, BCBSGA. "These same associates are also extremely committed to the communities where they live and work, particularly during these challenging economic times. I couldn't be more proud of their efforts to help make a difference for people in need."
In addition to the Associate Giving Campaign, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation funded $750,857 in grants to organizations in Georgia in 2010, including:
American Diabetes Association
Boys & Girls Clubs
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Grady Memorial Hospital
Health MPowers
March of Dimes
Oasis Institute
One-Sight
YMCA Metro Atlanta
Additional grants were awarded to the following national organizations which will directly benefit Georgia: Foundation for Health Coverage Education, Trustees of Dartmouth College, New England Healthcare Institute, Engleberg Center for Healthcare Reform at Brookings Institute, Center for Medical Technology Policy, American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research and the Pacific Research Institute for Public Policy. In addition to the Foundation grants and generosity of BCBSGA associates, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's community relations commitments totaled $189,133, including support to the following organizations:
Alzheimer's Association
American Cancer Society
American Diabetes Association
American Heart Association
American Lung Association
Arch Foundation for the State Botanical Garden Ball
Arthritis Foundation
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta
Champions for Change
Hosea Feed the Hungry
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
BCBSGA associates are also conducting local projects and contributing to several organizations to provide assistance around the holidays. Projects include:
Adopt-A-Family – Three Adopted Families
Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless Christmas Day Dinner
House of Mercy Food Drive
Operation Gratitude Holiday Packages and Candy Donations
Radio Disney Heritage Holiday Christmas Community Event
Salvation Army Holiday Drive
Second Harvest Food Bank
Toys for Tots Toy Drive
The community contributions by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, and its parent company Foundation total $1,279,779 for 2010.
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Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Friday, December 24, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
Fall Back 5K Run/Walk to Benefit the Cancer Support Community
Sunday, November 7, 2010
2:00 pm - 5K Run
2:45 pm - 1 Mile Walk
3:45 pm - Tot Trot
Concourse Athletic Club
8 Concourse Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30328
Entry fee: $20 if received by November 1
$25 if received after Nov. 1 and on day of race
The Cancer Support Community (formerly The Wellness Community) will hold the fourth annual "Fall Back 5K Run/Walk" at the Concourse Athletic Club, corner Hammond Drive and Peachtree Dunwoody Road. Proceeds will benefit the Cancer Support Community which provides free support and education classes for cancer patients and their loved ones. Register at: www.fallback5k.kintera.org. Free Moonwalk and food from Sweet Tomatoes. Registered runners get a long sleeved T-shirt.
For more information about the Cancer Support Community's support and educational programs, please call 404-843-1880 or visit www.cscatlanta.org.
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2:00 pm - 5K Run
2:45 pm - 1 Mile Walk
3:45 pm - Tot Trot
Concourse Athletic Club
8 Concourse Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30328
Entry fee: $20 if received by November 1
$25 if received after Nov. 1 and on day of race
The Cancer Support Community (formerly The Wellness Community) will hold the fourth annual "Fall Back 5K Run/Walk" at the Concourse Athletic Club, corner Hammond Drive and Peachtree Dunwoody Road. Proceeds will benefit the Cancer Support Community which provides free support and education classes for cancer patients and their loved ones. Register at: www.fallback5k.kintera.org. Free Moonwalk and food from Sweet Tomatoes. Registered runners get a long sleeved T-shirt.
For more information about the Cancer Support Community's support and educational programs, please call 404-843-1880 or visit www.cscatlanta.org.
---
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www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
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www.FayetteFrontPage.com
Twitter: @FayetteFP
Friday, August 20, 2010
Social work students and faculty help foster community in Reynoldstown
Reynoldstown, a historically working-class African-American neighborhood, has recently seen demographic changes in race and income, and some people don’t know their neighbors as well as they used to.
Social work faculty and students are helping to bring the neighborhood together to build community and strengthen ties through a six-week training program this spring that had neighbors starting the process by simply talking to one another.
The students, faculty and community residents dedicated an art project as part of the efforts on Aug. 14, celebrating the training program and its results. The GSU School of Social work partnered with Resources for Residents and Communities in the project.
Mary Ohmer, assistant professor of social work, said the Reynoldstown project was inspired by a similar successful GSU six-week training program in Thomasville Heights that helped to build relationships between neighbors.
“We wanted to create a gathering place to show that if you do this, you can make your community a better place to live,” Ohmer said.
The program, aimed at both youth and adults, included sessions on how to build relationships with neighbors and respect, as well as communication and conflict resolution skills.
Erich Harvey, a resident of Reynoldstown, said the program helped to open his eyes about needs in the area, as well as the possibilities of change.
“The most important thing that I saw was there were people who cared about me and cared about my well being,” Harvey said.
Young Hughley, CEO for Resources for Residents and Communities, said the program helped to bridge the divides between races and ages.
“The unique thing about this project was that it helped to deal with perceptions that the different groups had, and enabled them to sit down and talk with one another,” Hughley said. “It helped them to realize that they have more in common than they thought they did.
“They discovered that they liked each other, and that they were all a member of a community from one neighborhood,” he added.
The effort’s art project reshaped a once unused, vacant area of land bordering the CSX rail yards on Wylie Street between Selman and Kenyon Streets, allowing residents to work together to create a piece of public art, a platform that helps to tell stories about the neighborhood.
GSU alumna Emma Adair, who earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture this year, helped spearhead the creation of “Memory Map,” a stage where residents painted tiles and created a map of the area, featuring icons that indicated stories that happened in different parts of the neighborhood.
“I wanted to work on this project because I like working on projects that involve a bunch of different, diverse people,” Adair said. “I hope that we keep adding onto it.”
The next phase of the art project includes the installation this fall of sculptures of standing figures with solar-powered lights, said Adair, who is now pursuing her master’s degree in Pennsylvania.
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Social work faculty and students are helping to bring the neighborhood together to build community and strengthen ties through a six-week training program this spring that had neighbors starting the process by simply talking to one another.
The students, faculty and community residents dedicated an art project as part of the efforts on Aug. 14, celebrating the training program and its results. The GSU School of Social work partnered with Resources for Residents and Communities in the project.
Mary Ohmer, assistant professor of social work, said the Reynoldstown project was inspired by a similar successful GSU six-week training program in Thomasville Heights that helped to build relationships between neighbors.
“We wanted to create a gathering place to show that if you do this, you can make your community a better place to live,” Ohmer said.
The program, aimed at both youth and adults, included sessions on how to build relationships with neighbors and respect, as well as communication and conflict resolution skills.
Erich Harvey, a resident of Reynoldstown, said the program helped to open his eyes about needs in the area, as well as the possibilities of change.
“The most important thing that I saw was there were people who cared about me and cared about my well being,” Harvey said.
Young Hughley, CEO for Resources for Residents and Communities, said the program helped to bridge the divides between races and ages.
“The unique thing about this project was that it helped to deal with perceptions that the different groups had, and enabled them to sit down and talk with one another,” Hughley said. “It helped them to realize that they have more in common than they thought they did.
“They discovered that they liked each other, and that they were all a member of a community from one neighborhood,” he added.
The effort’s art project reshaped a once unused, vacant area of land bordering the CSX rail yards on Wylie Street between Selman and Kenyon Streets, allowing residents to work together to create a piece of public art, a platform that helps to tell stories about the neighborhood.
GSU alumna Emma Adair, who earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture this year, helped spearhead the creation of “Memory Map,” a stage where residents painted tiles and created a map of the area, featuring icons that indicated stories that happened in different parts of the neighborhood.
“I wanted to work on this project because I like working on projects that involve a bunch of different, diverse people,” Adair said. “I hope that we keep adding onto it.”
The next phase of the art project includes the installation this fall of sculptures of standing figures with solar-powered lights, said Adair, who is now pursuing her master’s degree in Pennsylvania.
-----
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Tuesday, July 27, 2010
MetLife Foundation Announces Grants to Twelve Local Food Banks
/PRNewswire/ -- MetLife Foundation today announced grants to twelve food banks. The grants, which total $450,000, will help the food banks respond to increased needs in local communities around the country. Since December 2008, MetLife Foundation has contributed $900,000 to food banks nationwide.
"Food banks and their partners play a critical role in meeting the needs of communities' most vulnerable residents - children, older adults, and the economically disadvantaged," said Dennis White, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation. "We are pleased to support their work, which is vital to community health and well-being."
The food banks receiving MetLife Foundation grants are:
-- Atlanta Community Food Bank (Atlanta, Ga.)
-- Community FoodBank of New Jersey (Hillside, N.J.)
-- Feeding America Tampa Bay (Tampa, Fla.)
-- The Foodbank, Inc. (Dayton, Ohio)
-- Food Bank of Central New York (East Syracuse, N.Y.)
-- Food Bank for New York City (New York, N.Y.)
-- Foodshare, Inc. (Bloomfield, Conn.)
-- Greater Boston Food Bank (Boston, Mass.)
-- North Texas Food Bank (Dallas, Texas)
-- Northern Illinois Food Bank (St. Charles, Ill.)
-- Rhode Island Community Food Bank (Providence, R.I.)
-- St. Louis Area Food Bank (St. Louis, Mo.)
MetLife Foundation was established by MetLife in 1976 to carry on its longstanding tradition of contributions and community involvement. Grants support health, education, civic and cultural programs. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.
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"Food banks and their partners play a critical role in meeting the needs of communities' most vulnerable residents - children, older adults, and the economically disadvantaged," said Dennis White, president and CEO of MetLife Foundation. "We are pleased to support their work, which is vital to community health and well-being."
The food banks receiving MetLife Foundation grants are:
-- Atlanta Community Food Bank (Atlanta, Ga.)
-- Community FoodBank of New Jersey (Hillside, N.J.)
-- Feeding America Tampa Bay (Tampa, Fla.)
-- The Foodbank, Inc. (Dayton, Ohio)
-- Food Bank of Central New York (East Syracuse, N.Y.)
-- Food Bank for New York City (New York, N.Y.)
-- Foodshare, Inc. (Bloomfield, Conn.)
-- Greater Boston Food Bank (Boston, Mass.)
-- North Texas Food Bank (Dallas, Texas)
-- Northern Illinois Food Bank (St. Charles, Ill.)
-- Rhode Island Community Food Bank (Providence, R.I.)
-- St. Louis Area Food Bank (St. Louis, Mo.)
MetLife Foundation was established by MetLife in 1976 to carry on its longstanding tradition of contributions and community involvement. Grants support health, education, civic and cultural programs. For more information about the Foundation, visit www.metlife.org.
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Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Associates Volunteer to Help Georgia Organizations During Third Annual Community Service Day
/PRNewswire/ -- More than 300 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) associates and their friends and families joined forces, despite thunderstorms and inclement weather conditions, to participate in the parent company's national Community Service Day. These efforts helped dozens of organizations across the state.
"At BCBSGA we work every day to improve the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president of BCBSGA. "Coming together on Community Service Day allows each of us to bring that commitment to life in an everyday way. For the past three years, we have worked with community organizations to collaborate on projects and services that impact each of our communities and we are proud to continue that effort this year."
BCBSGA partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Atlanta (BGCMA) to make the John Harland Boys & Girls Club cleaner, safer and more functional for its members. BGCMA works to provide young people with a safe place to learn and grow, and life-enhancing programs that develop character and offer hope and opportunity. The Club serves young people between the ages of six and 18 years, inspiring them to realize their full potential as healthy, productive and responsible citizens.
Volunteer tasks included:
- planting spring flowers in existing planter benches and butterfly garden
- refreshing large flower beds around the Club with shrubs and spring flowers
- installing landscape timbers around the Club to prevent mulch from washing away
- painting the teen clubhouse and installing new blinds
Coinciding with Points of Light & Hands On Network's National Volunteer Week, BCBSGA's associates participated in many activities, including:
-- Medshare
-- Camp Twin Lakes - Will-a-Way
-- March of Dimes Georgia Chapter - March for Babies (Columbus and
Savannah)
-- A.J. McClung YMCA
-- Twin Cedars Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home
-- Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
-- Golden Harvest Food Bank
-- Rebuilding Macon
-- And many others.
In 2009, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation also granted nearly $364,000 to community organizations in Georgia. In addition, BCBSGA gifted more than $270,000 to civic and charitable organizations through its community relations support.
And through BCBSGA's associate giving campaign, which was matched at 50 percent by the parent company's foundation, BCBSGA associates pledged more than $226,002 to help non profit organizations throughout the state in 2009.
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"At BCBSGA we work every day to improve the health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president of BCBSGA. "Coming together on Community Service Day allows each of us to bring that commitment to life in an everyday way. For the past three years, we have worked with community organizations to collaborate on projects and services that impact each of our communities and we are proud to continue that effort this year."
BCBSGA partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Atlanta (BGCMA) to make the John Harland Boys & Girls Club cleaner, safer and more functional for its members. BGCMA works to provide young people with a safe place to learn and grow, and life-enhancing programs that develop character and offer hope and opportunity. The Club serves young people between the ages of six and 18 years, inspiring them to realize their full potential as healthy, productive and responsible citizens.
Volunteer tasks included:
- planting spring flowers in existing planter benches and butterfly garden
- refreshing large flower beds around the Club with shrubs and spring flowers
- installing landscape timbers around the Club to prevent mulch from washing away
- painting the teen clubhouse and installing new blinds
Coinciding with Points of Light & Hands On Network's National Volunteer Week, BCBSGA's associates participated in many activities, including:
-- Medshare
-- Camp Twin Lakes - Will-a-Way
-- March of Dimes Georgia Chapter - March for Babies (Columbus and
Savannah)
-- A.J. McClung YMCA
-- Twin Cedars Anne Elizabeth Shepherd Home
-- Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
-- Golden Harvest Food Bank
-- Rebuilding Macon
-- And many others.
In 2009, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation also granted nearly $364,000 to community organizations in Georgia. In addition, BCBSGA gifted more than $270,000 to civic and charitable organizations through its community relations support.
And through BCBSGA's associate giving campaign, which was matched at 50 percent by the parent company's foundation, BCBSGA associates pledged more than $226,002 to help non profit organizations throughout the state in 2009.
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Thursday, February 18, 2010
Special Olympics Georgia Receives Grant from The Home Depot Foundation
/PRNewswire/ -- Through its fourth annual Building Community Day program, The Home Depot® Foundation has awarded $20,000 to Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA). The donation will be used to grow the State Competitions which also includes the Healthy Athletes free health screenings at all events.
"We are excited and honored to receive this support of both collaboration and funding from The Home Depot Foundation," said SOGA Chief Executive Officer Georgia Milton-Sheats. "This incredible and positive recognition and support will assist us as we expand and enhance our programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Atlanta community and statewide."
Through its Building Community Day program, sponsored in partnership with the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, The Home Depot Foundation connects with some of Atlanta's most effective nonprofit organizations, which are focused on building communities through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships that fall outside of the Foundation's usual areas of giving. Twenty nonprofits participated in roundtable discussions and workshops focused on the theme of 'Social Innovation: Inspirational Ideas and Practices for Maximum Impact.' Each organization received a $20,000 grant at the end of day to support their work on a broad range of issues facing the Atlanta community.
"We are delighted to support and celebrate nonprofits in our hometown that have a long-standing commitment to making Atlanta a healthier and more sustainable city where families can thrive," said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. "Special Olympics Georgia deserves enormous credit for the work it is doing, particularly in these difficult economic times, and we are glad to be part of their efforts."
SOGA continues to serve people with intellectual disabilities through year-round sports competitions and training, health screenings, leadership opportunities, family networking and more throughout the state. Find out more at www.specialolympicsga.org.
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"We are excited and honored to receive this support of both collaboration and funding from The Home Depot Foundation," said SOGA Chief Executive Officer Georgia Milton-Sheats. "This incredible and positive recognition and support will assist us as we expand and enhance our programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Atlanta community and statewide."
Through its Building Community Day program, sponsored in partnership with the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, The Home Depot Foundation connects with some of Atlanta's most effective nonprofit organizations, which are focused on building communities through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships that fall outside of the Foundation's usual areas of giving. Twenty nonprofits participated in roundtable discussions and workshops focused on the theme of 'Social Innovation: Inspirational Ideas and Practices for Maximum Impact.' Each organization received a $20,000 grant at the end of day to support their work on a broad range of issues facing the Atlanta community.
"We are delighted to support and celebrate nonprofits in our hometown that have a long-standing commitment to making Atlanta a healthier and more sustainable city where families can thrive," said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. "Special Olympics Georgia deserves enormous credit for the work it is doing, particularly in these difficult economic times, and we are glad to be part of their efforts."
SOGA continues to serve people with intellectual disabilities through year-round sports competitions and training, health screenings, leadership opportunities, family networking and more throughout the state. Find out more at www.specialolympicsga.org.
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Monday, January 04, 2010
The Community Foundation Announces Nonprofit Toolbox
The Community Foundation's commitment to strengthening and supporting our region's nonprofit sector includes more than giving financial grants. Nonprofits can now apply for the Nonprofit Toolbox, a program that helps strengthen organizations’ management, governance and operations.
Nonprofit Toolbox awards are not financial grants; they are custom-designed packages of management consulting to help solve a key organizational challenge or problem. Organizations selected to receive a Nonprofit Toolbox will work with a specialist who will construct a package of appropriate organizational assistance.
Who is eligible to apply? There are a number of eligibility criteria for the Nonprofit Toolbox, one of which is that the nonprofit be located and providing services within the Foundation’s 23-county service area. Review the Guidelines for complete information.
Is there a deadline to apply? Nonprofit Toolbox applications are accepted throughout the year and in 2010 will be reviewed in mid-January, mid-May and mid-September. Review the Guidelines for complete details.
Click here for a full description of the Nonprofit Toolbox and to download the Guidelines and Application Forms.
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Nonprofit Toolbox awards are not financial grants; they are custom-designed packages of management consulting to help solve a key organizational challenge or problem. Organizations selected to receive a Nonprofit Toolbox will work with a specialist who will construct a package of appropriate organizational assistance.
Who is eligible to apply? There are a number of eligibility criteria for the Nonprofit Toolbox, one of which is that the nonprofit be located and providing services within the Foundation’s 23-county service area. Review the Guidelines for complete information.
Is there a deadline to apply? Nonprofit Toolbox applications are accepted throughout the year and in 2010 will be reviewed in mid-January, mid-May and mid-September. Review the Guidelines for complete details.
Click here for a full description of the Nonprofit Toolbox and to download the Guidelines and Application Forms.
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Thursday, November 05, 2009
Special Olympics Georgia Organization Receives Grant From The Home Depot Foundation
/PRNewswire/ -- Through its fourth annual Building Community Day program, The Home Depot(R) Foundation has awarded $20,000 to Special Olympics Georgia. The donation will be used to grow the State Competitions which also includes the healthy athlete free health screenings at all events.
"We are excited and honored to receive this support of both collaboration and funding from The Home Depot Foundation," said Georgia Milton-Sheats, Chief Executive Officer. "This incredible and positive recognition and support will assist us as we expand and enhance our programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and to serve the Atlanta community and statewide."
Through its Building Community Day program, sponsored in partnership with the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, The Home Depot Foundation connects with some of Atlanta's most effective nonprofit organizations, which are focused on building communities through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships that fall outside of the Foundation's usual areas of giving. This year, 20 nonprofits participated in roundtable discussions and workshops focused on the theme of 'Social Innovation: Inspirational Ideas and Practices for Maximum Impact.' Each organization received a $20,000 grant at the end of day to support their work on a broad range of issues facing the Atlanta community.
"We are delighted to support and celebrate nonprofits in our hometown that have a long-standing commitment to making Atlanta a healthier and more sustainable city where families can thrive," said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. "Special Olympics Georgia deserves enormous credit for the work it is doing, particularly in these difficult economic times, and we are glad to be part of their efforts."
Special Olympics Georgia continues to serve people with intellectual disabilities through sports and training, health screenings, leadership opportunities and family networking and more throughout the state. Find out more at www.specialolympicsga.org.
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"We are excited and honored to receive this support of both collaboration and funding from The Home Depot Foundation," said Georgia Milton-Sheats, Chief Executive Officer. "This incredible and positive recognition and support will assist us as we expand and enhance our programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and to serve the Atlanta community and statewide."
Through its Building Community Day program, sponsored in partnership with the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, The Home Depot Foundation connects with some of Atlanta's most effective nonprofit organizations, which are focused on building communities through innovative programs and collaborative partnerships that fall outside of the Foundation's usual areas of giving. This year, 20 nonprofits participated in roundtable discussions and workshops focused on the theme of 'Social Innovation: Inspirational Ideas and Practices for Maximum Impact.' Each organization received a $20,000 grant at the end of day to support their work on a broad range of issues facing the Atlanta community.
"We are delighted to support and celebrate nonprofits in our hometown that have a long-standing commitment to making Atlanta a healthier and more sustainable city where families can thrive," said Kelly Caffarelli, president, The Home Depot Foundation. "Special Olympics Georgia deserves enormous credit for the work it is doing, particularly in these difficult economic times, and we are glad to be part of their efforts."
Special Olympics Georgia continues to serve people with intellectual disabilities through sports and training, health screenings, leadership opportunities and family networking and more throughout the state. Find out more at www.specialolympicsga.org.
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Thursday, September 24, 2009
Electric Co-op Employees Volunteer During Hands on Georgia Week
/PRNewswire/ -- Employees of Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) throughout Georgia, Georgia EMC, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. will join forces during Hands on Georgia Week, September 26-October 2, to benefit a variety of community service projects.
Volunteer efforts this year will range from holding food drives in communities throughout Georgia, sorting perishable goods for area food banks, clearing trees and debris at a local park and other beautification projects.
Hands On Georgia (HOGA) Week is an initiative launched by Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue in 2004. Since 2007, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC have been statewide sponsors, and last year joined ranks with more than 100 EMC employees across Georgia who volunteered during HOGA week.
"EMCs are proud to support Governor Perdue's focus on the importance of volunteerism and community service, since nearly 5,000 EMC employees across the state invest thousands of hours giving back to their communities throughout the year," notes Georgia EMC President/CEO Paul Wood.
"EMCs work hard to cultivate a commitment to our state and her communities, and HOGA week provides us the opportunity to honor that commitment in a concerted effort statewide."
This year, EMCs will cast a wide net during the week and enlist hundreds of volunteers from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Young Harris; Canoochee EMC, Reidsville; Carroll EMC, Carrollton; Cobb EMC, Marietta; Colquitt EMC, Moultrie; Diverse Power, LaGrange; Georgia EMC, Georgia Transmission Corp. and Oglethorpe Power Corp., Tucker; GreyStone Power, Douglasville; Jackson EMC, Jefferson; Mitchell EMC, Camilla; North Georgia EMC, Dalton; Ocmulgee EMC, Eastman; Oconee EMC, Dudley; Okefenoke REMC, Nahunta; Slash Pine EMC, Homerville; Snapping Shoals EMC, Covington; Southern Rivers, Barnesville; Tri-County EMC, Gray; and Walton EMC, Monroe.
In addition to individual EMC service projects, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC will encourage participation in a statewide food drive coordinated with the Georgia Food Bank Network which provides assistance through member food banks to Georgians fighting hunger and food insecurity throughout the state.
This year, HOGA Week projects are planned in all 159 counties in the state. Communities will perform Hands On projects to address local needs such as environmental clean ups, building restorations, wheel chair ramp construction, playground builds and tutoring sessions with children, among many other efforts.
For more information, visit www.georgiaemc.com, www.opc.com, www.gatrans.com and www.gasoc.com.
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Volunteer efforts this year will range from holding food drives in communities throughout Georgia, sorting perishable goods for area food banks, clearing trees and debris at a local park and other beautification projects.
Hands On Georgia (HOGA) Week is an initiative launched by Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue in 2004. Since 2007, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC have been statewide sponsors, and last year joined ranks with more than 100 EMC employees across Georgia who volunteered during HOGA week.
"EMCs are proud to support Governor Perdue's focus on the importance of volunteerism and community service, since nearly 5,000 EMC employees across the state invest thousands of hours giving back to their communities throughout the year," notes Georgia EMC President/CEO Paul Wood.
"EMCs work hard to cultivate a commitment to our state and her communities, and HOGA week provides us the opportunity to honor that commitment in a concerted effort statewide."
This year, EMCs will cast a wide net during the week and enlist hundreds of volunteers from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Young Harris; Canoochee EMC, Reidsville; Carroll EMC, Carrollton; Cobb EMC, Marietta; Colquitt EMC, Moultrie; Diverse Power, LaGrange; Georgia EMC, Georgia Transmission Corp. and Oglethorpe Power Corp., Tucker; GreyStone Power, Douglasville; Jackson EMC, Jefferson; Mitchell EMC, Camilla; North Georgia EMC, Dalton; Ocmulgee EMC, Eastman; Oconee EMC, Dudley; Okefenoke REMC, Nahunta; Slash Pine EMC, Homerville; Snapping Shoals EMC, Covington; Southern Rivers, Barnesville; Tri-County EMC, Gray; and Walton EMC, Monroe.
In addition to individual EMC service projects, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC will encourage participation in a statewide food drive coordinated with the Georgia Food Bank Network which provides assistance through member food banks to Georgians fighting hunger and food insecurity throughout the state.
This year, HOGA Week projects are planned in all 159 counties in the state. Communities will perform Hands On projects to address local needs such as environmental clean ups, building restorations, wheel chair ramp construction, playground builds and tutoring sessions with children, among many other efforts.
For more information, visit www.georgiaemc.com, www.opc.com, www.gatrans.com and www.gasoc.com.
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Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Hundreds of Thousands of Volunteers to Provide Day of Service in Eleven Southern States
/PRNewswire/ -- Hundreds of thousands of volunteers from community and faith-based organizations will strengthen communities and bring relief to those struggling because of the economic downturn in an unprecedented single day of service across 11 southern states on 25 April 2009.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints organized the project under the direction of Elder Walter F. Gonzalez, who presides over church affairs in the southern United States. He challenged over 665 congregations from Florida to Indiana to join forces with other faiths and civic organizations to render significant community service in what is being called "The Helping Hands and Linking Arms Project."
Elder Gonzalez said: "It's powerful when like-minded people join together to meet a wide spectrum of needs in diverse communities. We can bring help and hope to others no matter what their circumstances."
"The impact of these feet on the ground during the day of service will do in one day what takes us four months as an organization to accomplish," said Jack Morgan, CEO for the Northeast Chapter of the American Red Cross in Jacksonville, Florida. "We are hoping that this partnership is not just about this one day but about our future working together to prepare the community for disasters and to help with response when disaster strikes."
The project includes gleaning crops, restocking community food banks, holding career fairs and blood drives, cleaning and repairing community facilities, building a Habitat for Humanity home, planting container gardens for low-income families, sponsoring a 5k run for charity and even preparing Mother's Day gifts for homeless children. In Tennessee volunteers will prepare and plant eight vacant lots in the inner city with vegetable gardens that will be cared for by neighborhood organizations, and in North Carolina foster children will be "adopted" for the day of service to show them the benefits of giving to others.
"When I heard about the day of service, I thought it was a perfect way to serve," said Stacy Somers, president of the Wellington Citizens Volunteer Organization in Florida. "It will be a great activity for adults and children, singles and families. This kind of project is what volunteerism should be all about."
The project will not only help community service organizations but also everyday people struggling to serve and make ends meet. For example, Gwendolyn Brown-Johnson is a grandmother in Charlotte, North Carolina, who noticed that several children in her neighborhood were not getting an evening meal and invited them in for a warm dinner. That was 10 years ago. Today, she has 70 children joining her every night for dinner. She calls her initiative the Parkview Kids Cafe. Brown-Johnson believes it is her calling to take care of these children as the loving grandmother they might not otherwise have in their lives.
"The only way I can feed 70 children every night is through generous donations from so many organizations," Brown-Johnson said. "Second Harvest Food Bank provides the food the children need, but we also rely on churches, such as yours, to provide the extras that bless the lives of these children with food for the weekends, day camps and field trips."
Volunteers will stock Brown-Johnson's "emergency pantry" with jars of jam and jelly, meals children can microwave, and powdered milk. From this emergency pantry, she fills a backpack for every child and sends it home with him or her on Friday night, ensuring that each child will have food for the weekend. The volunteers will also paint Brown-Johnson's dining room and help with cleaning.
In several states, the project will focus on helping communities that were hard hit by past hurricanes to become better prepared. Two thousand volunteers will distribute disaster prevention materials to 40,000 homes in Florida, and hundreds of young people will install smoke alarms and reflective address signs for the elderly in Louisiana as part of a newly enhanced 911 service.
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints organized the project under the direction of Elder Walter F. Gonzalez, who presides over church affairs in the southern United States. He challenged over 665 congregations from Florida to Indiana to join forces with other faiths and civic organizations to render significant community service in what is being called "The Helping Hands and Linking Arms Project."
Elder Gonzalez said: "It's powerful when like-minded people join together to meet a wide spectrum of needs in diverse communities. We can bring help and hope to others no matter what their circumstances."
"The impact of these feet on the ground during the day of service will do in one day what takes us four months as an organization to accomplish," said Jack Morgan, CEO for the Northeast Chapter of the American Red Cross in Jacksonville, Florida. "We are hoping that this partnership is not just about this one day but about our future working together to prepare the community for disasters and to help with response when disaster strikes."
The project includes gleaning crops, restocking community food banks, holding career fairs and blood drives, cleaning and repairing community facilities, building a Habitat for Humanity home, planting container gardens for low-income families, sponsoring a 5k run for charity and even preparing Mother's Day gifts for homeless children. In Tennessee volunteers will prepare and plant eight vacant lots in the inner city with vegetable gardens that will be cared for by neighborhood organizations, and in North Carolina foster children will be "adopted" for the day of service to show them the benefits of giving to others.
"When I heard about the day of service, I thought it was a perfect way to serve," said Stacy Somers, president of the Wellington Citizens Volunteer Organization in Florida. "It will be a great activity for adults and children, singles and families. This kind of project is what volunteerism should be all about."
The project will not only help community service organizations but also everyday people struggling to serve and make ends meet. For example, Gwendolyn Brown-Johnson is a grandmother in Charlotte, North Carolina, who noticed that several children in her neighborhood were not getting an evening meal and invited them in for a warm dinner. That was 10 years ago. Today, she has 70 children joining her every night for dinner. She calls her initiative the Parkview Kids Cafe. Brown-Johnson believes it is her calling to take care of these children as the loving grandmother they might not otherwise have in their lives.
"The only way I can feed 70 children every night is through generous donations from so many organizations," Brown-Johnson said. "Second Harvest Food Bank provides the food the children need, but we also rely on churches, such as yours, to provide the extras that bless the lives of these children with food for the weekends, day camps and field trips."
Volunteers will stock Brown-Johnson's "emergency pantry" with jars of jam and jelly, meals children can microwave, and powdered milk. From this emergency pantry, she fills a backpack for every child and sends it home with him or her on Friday night, ensuring that each child will have food for the weekend. The volunteers will also paint Brown-Johnson's dining room and help with cleaning.
In several states, the project will focus on helping communities that were hard hit by past hurricanes to become better prepared. Two thousand volunteers will distribute disaster prevention materials to 40,000 homes in Florida, and hundreds of young people will install smoke alarms and reflective address signs for the elderly in Louisiana as part of a newly enhanced 911 service.
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Thursday, December 18, 2008
Fredericka Roper of Atlanta Honored as 'Healthy Hero' By the AMERIGROUP Foundation
The AMERIGROUP Foundation announced today that it is honoring Fredericka Roper, a Community Outreach worker at West End Medical Centers, by designating her a "Healthy Hero."
Ms. Roper has contributed significantly to the health and well-being of Atlanta's financially vulnerable citizens through years of extensive neighborhood involvement. For the past three years, she has worked with West End Medical Centers, a federally funded community health center with five locations in Fulton and Cobb counties. Ms. Roper serves as community liaison for West End clinics located in Atlanta public housing developments including Bowen Homes and Herndon Homes.
"Fredericka Roper is a tireless advocate for the children and families of Atlanta," said John E. Littel, Chairman of the AMERIGROUP Foundation. "She connects people to healthcare and a wide range of services that make their lives better. We at AMERIGROUP share her sense of mission and admire her commitment and her success."
The AMERIGROUP Foundation periodically honors "Healthy Heroes" who have made a significant difference in the communities served by its corporate underwriter, AMERIGROUP Corporation, which administers publicly funded healthcare programs such as Medicaid and Medicare for state and federal governments. AMERIGROUP Community Care of Georgia brings healthcare services to about 201,000 people enrolled in Medicaid in Georgia.
To honor Ms. Roper's service, the Foundation will present a $1,000 contribution to a charity she has selected, the March of Dimes.
"We join AMERIGROUP in recognizing the exemplary work performed by our committed staff member, Fredericka Roper," said Barbara Means-Cheely, director of social services at West End Medical Clinic. "Ms. Roper is committed to serving the poor, the disadvantaged and the underserved. She serves with compassion and love. We applaud her outstanding service and work."
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Ms. Roper has contributed significantly to the health and well-being of Atlanta's financially vulnerable citizens through years of extensive neighborhood involvement. For the past three years, she has worked with West End Medical Centers, a federally funded community health center with five locations in Fulton and Cobb counties. Ms. Roper serves as community liaison for West End clinics located in Atlanta public housing developments including Bowen Homes and Herndon Homes.
"Fredericka Roper is a tireless advocate for the children and families of Atlanta," said John E. Littel, Chairman of the AMERIGROUP Foundation. "She connects people to healthcare and a wide range of services that make their lives better. We at AMERIGROUP share her sense of mission and admire her commitment and her success."
The AMERIGROUP Foundation periodically honors "Healthy Heroes" who have made a significant difference in the communities served by its corporate underwriter, AMERIGROUP Corporation, which administers publicly funded healthcare programs such as Medicaid and Medicare for state and federal governments. AMERIGROUP Community Care of Georgia brings healthcare services to about 201,000 people enrolled in Medicaid in Georgia.
To honor Ms. Roper's service, the Foundation will present a $1,000 contribution to a charity she has selected, the March of Dimes.
"We join AMERIGROUP in recognizing the exemplary work performed by our committed staff member, Fredericka Roper," said Barbara Means-Cheely, director of social services at West End Medical Clinic. "Ms. Roper is committed to serving the poor, the disadvantaged and the underserved. She serves with compassion and love. We applaud her outstanding service and work."
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Thursday, October 02, 2008
Call For Nominations for Community Health Leaders
(NAPSI)-Do you know someone committed to tackling the toughest health problems in the community? If so, you can nominate your unsung local leader for the Community Health Leaders (CHL) Award. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who overcome great obstacles to improve local health and health care services.
Community Health Leaders work to improve health conditions in various ways--fighting for better treatment of migrant workers, battling for free language assistance services at hospitals, providing diapers to needy families and much more. Every day, Americans are stepping up to meet the health challenges in their communities with innovative approaches.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation established the Community Health Leaders Award in 1993. Today, there are more than 150 leaders in 45 states and Puerto Rico who work at the community and neighborhood levels to address some of the most difficult health and health care problems in the nation. Every year, the Community Health Leaders Award celebrates the work of 10 extraordinary men and women with national recognition and $125,000 each to support their continued efforts.
Nominations typically are accepted from September through the first week of November annually. To learn more, including how to nominate someone for the award, visit www.communityhealthleaders.org.
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Community Health Leaders work to improve health conditions in various ways--fighting for better treatment of migrant workers, battling for free language assistance services at hospitals, providing diapers to needy families and much more. Every day, Americans are stepping up to meet the health challenges in their communities with innovative approaches.
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation established the Community Health Leaders Award in 1993. Today, there are more than 150 leaders in 45 states and Puerto Rico who work at the community and neighborhood levels to address some of the most difficult health and health care problems in the nation. Every year, the Community Health Leaders Award celebrates the work of 10 extraordinary men and women with national recognition and $125,000 each to support their continued efforts.
Nominations typically are accepted from September through the first week of November annually. To learn more, including how to nominate someone for the award, visit www.communityhealthleaders.org.
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Sunday, September 21, 2008
Atlanta Braves Foundation Awards Nearly $90,000 in Grants to Local Non-Profit Organizations
The Atlanta Braves Foundation awarded grants totaling $87,000 to the following non-profit organizations prior to Friday's Braves game vs. the New York Mets: Atlanta Community Food Bank, Atlanta Habitat for Humanity, Atlanta Track Club, Canine Companions for Independence, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Cobb Christmas, Inc., East Lake Foundation, Latin American Association, L.E.A.D., Inc., Metro Atlanta Project, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Ga., North Metro Miracle League, READing Paws, Inc., Star Struck Foundation, The Auditory-Verbal Center, Inc., The Ron Clark Academy, Tomorrow's Champions, Villages at Carver Family YMCA, and YES! Atlanta.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation grants funds to youth-serving organizations that focus on health, education, and recreation; that have sound financial practices; and whose plans for the requested funds will have a significant impact upon the individuals served by the requesting organization.
Friday night's grant ceremony caps another successful year for the Atlanta Braves Foundation and its community outreach programs. The Foundation was successful in its fundraising efforts in 2008 thanks to the generous support of thousands of fans and community partners. Marquee events and initiatives including the Legacy Brick Paver Program, Atlanta Braves Foundation Weekend and the Third Annual Atlanta Braves Foundation Golf Classic experienced tremendous support and success. Annual fundraisers and ongoing programs including Jerseys Off Our Backs, Brown Bag Bonanza, the 50/50 Raffle and game day silent auctions helped provide additional funds to support the Atlanta Braves Foundation's outreach efforts.
Metro Atlanta youth baseball and softball programs benefited in 2008 from the "Pinch Hitter Grant Fund," an initiative to assist youth baseball and softball organizations in need. The Atlanta Braves Foundation made $12,000 in financial contributions to 12 organizations to help provide relief for lost or stolen equipment, damaged facilities, and uniform shortages.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation is the non-profit arm of the Atlanta Braves that actively supports community organizations and their programs within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Atlanta Braves Foundation has provided support to thousands of metro Atlanta based organizations and has contributed more than 2.7 million dollars in financial assistance to the community. Through the generous support of Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans, the Atlanta Braves Foundation continuously strives to improve the quality of life for our youth.
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The Atlanta Braves Foundation grants funds to youth-serving organizations that focus on health, education, and recreation; that have sound financial practices; and whose plans for the requested funds will have a significant impact upon the individuals served by the requesting organization.
Friday night's grant ceremony caps another successful year for the Atlanta Braves Foundation and its community outreach programs. The Foundation was successful in its fundraising efforts in 2008 thanks to the generous support of thousands of fans and community partners. Marquee events and initiatives including the Legacy Brick Paver Program, Atlanta Braves Foundation Weekend and the Third Annual Atlanta Braves Foundation Golf Classic experienced tremendous support and success. Annual fundraisers and ongoing programs including Jerseys Off Our Backs, Brown Bag Bonanza, the 50/50 Raffle and game day silent auctions helped provide additional funds to support the Atlanta Braves Foundation's outreach efforts.
Metro Atlanta youth baseball and softball programs benefited in 2008 from the "Pinch Hitter Grant Fund," an initiative to assist youth baseball and softball organizations in need. The Atlanta Braves Foundation made $12,000 in financial contributions to 12 organizations to help provide relief for lost or stolen equipment, damaged facilities, and uniform shortages.
The Atlanta Braves Foundation is the non-profit arm of the Atlanta Braves that actively supports community organizations and their programs within the metro Atlanta area. Since its inception in 1992, the Atlanta Braves Foundation has provided support to thousands of metro Atlanta based organizations and has contributed more than 2.7 million dollars in financial assistance to the community. Through the generous support of Braves players, employees, sponsors and fans, the Atlanta Braves Foundation continuously strives to improve the quality of life for our youth.
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Monday, September 08, 2008
Two Events for Newnan's Community Welcome House in October
Coweta Veterans are hosting a golf tournament to benefit Community Welcome House Sunday October 19th at Orchard Hills.
Community Welcome House is hosting a 1-Mile Walk on Saturday October 18th beginning at 4:00pm near the Silhouettes at Wadsworth Auditorium in Newnan.
Community Welcome House brings hope and courage to those individuals who are victims of domestic violence; children who live in an environment of violence are victims. Info: 404-625-2711, lindakirk@charter.net or www.communitywelcomehouse.org.
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Community Welcome House is hosting a 1-Mile Walk on Saturday October 18th beginning at 4:00pm near the Silhouettes at Wadsworth Auditorium in Newnan.
Community Welcome House brings hope and courage to those individuals who are victims of domestic violence; children who live in an environment of violence are victims. Info: 404-625-2711, lindakirk@charter.net or www.communitywelcomehouse.org.
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Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Emory Students Team up to Help Atlantans in Need
More than 400 Emory University Rollins School of Public Health students will roll up their sleeves on Thursday, Aug. 28, for a day of service to help Atlanta communities in need.
This is the second year that incoming public health students will participate in "Rollins-teer Day" as part of new student orientation. The event was such a hit with last year's incoming class that organizers planned an encore service day this year and added more than a dozen volunteer sites for students to choose from.
Students will volunteer with local charities that address challenges related to poverty, homelessness, distribution of medical services and supplies, chronic disease and environmental conservation.
The Rollins-teer Service Learning Program was established so students can stay connected to the community throughout their time at the Rollins School of Public Health, says Kristin Unzicker, assistant director of international affairs and special programs.
"On this day, students will 'learn while doing' and begin to think about how to tackle issues that adversely affect thousands of people in Atlanta," Unzicker says. "We anticipate that this experience will enhance Rollins School of Public Health students' opportunities for service and learning while creating lasting relationships throughout the community."
Service sites include the Atlanta Union Mission, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta, MedShare International, Senior Citizens Services, Project Open Hand, Metro Atlanta Task Force for the Homeless, CHRIS Kids, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and Park Pride.
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This is the second year that incoming public health students will participate in "Rollins-teer Day" as part of new student orientation. The event was such a hit with last year's incoming class that organizers planned an encore service day this year and added more than a dozen volunteer sites for students to choose from.
Students will volunteer with local charities that address challenges related to poverty, homelessness, distribution of medical services and supplies, chronic disease and environmental conservation.
The Rollins-teer Service Learning Program was established so students can stay connected to the community throughout their time at the Rollins School of Public Health, says Kristin Unzicker, assistant director of international affairs and special programs.
"On this day, students will 'learn while doing' and begin to think about how to tackle issues that adversely affect thousands of people in Atlanta," Unzicker says. "We anticipate that this experience will enhance Rollins School of Public Health students' opportunities for service and learning while creating lasting relationships throughout the community."
Service sites include the Atlanta Union Mission, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta, MedShare International, Senior Citizens Services, Project Open Hand, Metro Atlanta Task Force for the Homeless, CHRIS Kids, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and Park Pride.
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Monday, May 19, 2008
Community gardens popular in metro Atlanta
HHG Note: Plant a Row for the Hungry raised over 10,000 pounds of produce for local charities last year in Fayette County.
Whether their motivation is feeding their families or beefing up their wallets, more than ever Atlantans are coming together to plant community gardens, says a University of Georgia garden expert.
“There has been a significant increase in interest in community gardening this year alone,” said Bobby Wilson, who coordinates the Atlanta Urban Gardening Program. “There is always an increase in the spring, usually only 60 to 75 percent of the new gardens survive. We think this year many more will survive because of food prices and because people are concerned about what is going on their food in terms of chemicals.”
The program currently includes more than 225 gardens in Dekalb and Fulton counties, said Wilson, who is the UGA Cooperative Extension agent in Fulton County. But interest is growing. Attendance at a recent garden leadership meeting was double what it typically is.
“We try to provide assistance,” he said. “What we are finding is a lot of people don’t know anything about what they are doing. All they know is they want to grow their own fresh vegetables.”
Many gardeners in Wilson’s service area want to become certified to sell their extra produce to participants in the federal Woman, Infant and Child (WIC) Nutrition Program. Some gardening groups set up stands at local family and children services buildings to provide WIC recipients with fresh produce. They also go to farmers markets to sell their wares.
Community gardening not only nourishes the body, he said, it nourishes the mind and soul, too. It gives a sense of belonging, is a source of exercise and provides a venue for social networking.
“Gardening is more than growing fresh vegetables, it’s therapeutic,” he said. “We have found that a lot of people have participated not for what they do in the garden, but because they wanted to be a part of the internal structure. It makes them feel like they are a part of something important.”
Food from gardens in the program helps feed 300 homeless people at the Peachtree and Pine Shelter every month. Many gardeners also donate food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank through the Plant a Row for the Hungry program. This year’s goal is 30,000 pounds.
For more information, call your local UGA Extension agent at 1-800-ASK-UGA1.
By April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Whether their motivation is feeding their families or beefing up their wallets, more than ever Atlantans are coming together to plant community gardens, says a University of Georgia garden expert.
“There has been a significant increase in interest in community gardening this year alone,” said Bobby Wilson, who coordinates the Atlanta Urban Gardening Program. “There is always an increase in the spring, usually only 60 to 75 percent of the new gardens survive. We think this year many more will survive because of food prices and because people are concerned about what is going on their food in terms of chemicals.”
The program currently includes more than 225 gardens in Dekalb and Fulton counties, said Wilson, who is the UGA Cooperative Extension agent in Fulton County. But interest is growing. Attendance at a recent garden leadership meeting was double what it typically is.
“We try to provide assistance,” he said. “What we are finding is a lot of people don’t know anything about what they are doing. All they know is they want to grow their own fresh vegetables.”
Many gardeners in Wilson’s service area want to become certified to sell their extra produce to participants in the federal Woman, Infant and Child (WIC) Nutrition Program. Some gardening groups set up stands at local family and children services buildings to provide WIC recipients with fresh produce. They also go to farmers markets to sell their wares.
Community gardening not only nourishes the body, he said, it nourishes the mind and soul, too. It gives a sense of belonging, is a source of exercise and provides a venue for social networking.
“Gardening is more than growing fresh vegetables, it’s therapeutic,” he said. “We have found that a lot of people have participated not for what they do in the garden, but because they wanted to be a part of the internal structure. It makes them feel like they are a part of something important.”
Food from gardens in the program helps feed 300 homeless people at the Peachtree and Pine Shelter every month. Many gardeners also donate food to the Atlanta Community Food Bank through the Plant a Row for the Hungry program. This year’s goal is 30,000 pounds.
For more information, call your local UGA Extension agent at 1-800-ASK-UGA1.
By April Sorrow
University of Georgia
April Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Help Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
Please go to the web site below and vote for Atlanta (Children's Healthcare of Atlanta) to get a new hospital playroom from Colgate.
It was an easy process (just a few clicks) and would benefit so many of our children who spend time at the hospital.
You can vote every day.
Come on Atlanta!
http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/Corp/CommunityPrograms/show-the-love.cvsp
Helping Hands Note: Wow. We were certainly impressed when we all took a look at the things Colgate is doing across the country to give back to the community! Take a look at some of the current programs and buy Colgate (we're gonna support them after popping around their website a short bit!):
Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation
Making a world of difference for seriously ill children and their families. Vote to help a hospital receive a fun center. More
Celebrate Black History with Starlight Starbright
Celebrate Black History with Show the Love. Vote to bring smiles to children with Sickle Cell Disease. More
Give Kids A Smile®
Colgate-Palmolive is delighted to partner with the American Dental Association to provide education along with preventative and restorative care to low-income children who do not have access to dental care. More
Healthy Bedtime Habits For a Lifetime
Colgate-Palmolive proudly joins Reading Is Fundamental® in its efforts to create a nation of lifelong readers. More
Caring Makes a Difference
Colgate-Palmolive is partnering with the National Breast Cancer Foundation to help provide free mammograms in underserved communities. More
Bright Smiles, Bright Futures®
For over 40 years, children around the world have enjoyed free oral care education. More
Save the World From CavitiesTM
Colgate-Palmolive teams up with the American Dental Association to empower children to take control of their dental health. More
Colgate® Country Showdown®
America's Largest Country Music Talent Search! More
Colgate Women's Games
Each year, girls and young women compete in the largest amateur track and field event in the world. More
It was an easy process (just a few clicks) and would benefit so many of our children who spend time at the hospital.
You can vote every day.
Come on Atlanta!
http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/Corp/CommunityPrograms/show-the-love.cvsp
Helping Hands Note: Wow. We were certainly impressed when we all took a look at the things Colgate is doing across the country to give back to the community! Take a look at some of the current programs and buy Colgate (we're gonna support them after popping around their website a short bit!):
Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation
Making a world of difference for seriously ill children and their families. Vote to help a hospital receive a fun center. More
Celebrate Black History with Starlight Starbright
Celebrate Black History with Show the Love. Vote to bring smiles to children with Sickle Cell Disease. More
Give Kids A Smile®
Colgate-Palmolive is delighted to partner with the American Dental Association to provide education along with preventative and restorative care to low-income children who do not have access to dental care. More
Healthy Bedtime Habits For a Lifetime
Colgate-Palmolive proudly joins Reading Is Fundamental® in its efforts to create a nation of lifelong readers. More
Caring Makes a Difference
Colgate-Palmolive is partnering with the National Breast Cancer Foundation to help provide free mammograms in underserved communities. More
Bright Smiles, Bright Futures®
For over 40 years, children around the world have enjoyed free oral care education. More
Save the World From CavitiesTM
Colgate-Palmolive teams up with the American Dental Association to empower children to take control of their dental health. More
Colgate® Country Showdown®
America's Largest Country Music Talent Search! More
Colgate Women's Games
Each year, girls and young women compete in the largest amateur track and field event in the world. More
Friday, December 28, 2007
Kaiser Permanente Provides $1.4 Million in Holiday Gifts to 40 Metro Atlanta Nonprofits
ATLANTA, Dec. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Kaiser Permanente is providing 40 Atlanta-area nonprofit organizations with a surprise holiday gift in the mail this year: over $1.4 million in grant funds to support local health initiatives. The end-of-year grants range from $5,000 to $250,000 and focus on increasing access to health care for low-income, uninsured or underinsured individuals; funding for nursing and pharmacy scholarships; and other community health programs.
"These grants demonstrate our commitment to improving access to care and the health of metro area residents. Each organization receiving a grant helps fulfill our mission to improve the health of the communities we serve," said Evonne Yancey, Kaiser Permanente's director of Government and Community Relations.
Metro Atlanta area organizations receiving grant funds from Kaiser Permanente include:
Safety Net Providers
A total of 29 safety net providers (examples: free clinics, community clinics, hospitals) who participated in a Kaiser Permanente commissioned safety net study will share in a total of $620,000 to support their programs for the uninsured.
The Atlanta Women's Foundation
The Atlanta Women's Foundation will receive $250,000 to establish an initiative to create opportunities for women and girls to understand the components of good health and improve their well-being.
The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Kaiser Permanente is providing $150,000 to support a multi-year community health improvement initiative aimed at improving the health status of residents living in South DeKalb's Belvedere neighborhood.
$50,000 Grants
Several organizations will receive $50,000 grants focused on reducing health disparities, improving care and coverage for the low income and homeless, and creating wellness programs. These organizations include:
The American Cancer Society,
The DeKalb County School System,
Morehouse School of Medicine,
St. Joseph's Mercy Care Services and
the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.
(Following is a listing of all community organizations receiving Kaiser Permanente grant funds.)
Grant Recipients
Below are all community organizations that received end-of-year grant funds from Kaiser
Permanente. AID Atlanta Hands of Hope Clinic, Inc.
American Cancer Society Hebron Community Health Center
Center for Black Women's Wellness, Inc. Kennesaw State University Foundation
Center for Community Based Partnership McIntosh Trail Community Service Board
Clayton College and State University Medical Network for Education and Research
Clayton County Board of Health Mercer University School of Pharmacy
Cobb/Douglas Board of Health Ministries United for Service and Training
DeKalb Community Service Board Morehouse School of Medicine
DeKalb County Board of Education Oakhurst Medical Centers, Inc.
DeKalb County Board of Health Saint Joseph's Mercy Care Services, Inc.
Fulton County Department of Health Southside Medical Center, and Wellness Inc.
Fulton Life Enrichment Foundation, Inc. Sweetwater Valley Community
Action Mission Program, Inc.
Georgia Highlands Medical Services, Inc. The Arch Foundation for the University of Georgia
Georgia Mountains Community Services Board The Atlanta Women's Foundation
Georgia Perimeter College The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Georgia State University The Good Samaritan Health Center, Inc.
Good Shepherd Clinic, Inc. The Road to Recovery, Inc.
Grant Park Family Health Center, Inc. West End Medical Centers, Inc.
Gwinnett County Board of Health YMCA of Metro Atlanta
Gwinnett Hospital System, Inc. YWCA of Greater Atlanta
"These grants demonstrate our commitment to improving access to care and the health of metro area residents. Each organization receiving a grant helps fulfill our mission to improve the health of the communities we serve," said Evonne Yancey, Kaiser Permanente's director of Government and Community Relations.
Metro Atlanta area organizations receiving grant funds from Kaiser Permanente include:
Safety Net Providers
A total of 29 safety net providers (examples: free clinics, community clinics, hospitals) who participated in a Kaiser Permanente commissioned safety net study will share in a total of $620,000 to support their programs for the uninsured.
The Atlanta Women's Foundation
The Atlanta Women's Foundation will receive $250,000 to establish an initiative to create opportunities for women and girls to understand the components of good health and improve their well-being.
The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Kaiser Permanente is providing $150,000 to support a multi-year community health improvement initiative aimed at improving the health status of residents living in South DeKalb's Belvedere neighborhood.
$50,000 Grants
Several organizations will receive $50,000 grants focused on reducing health disparities, improving care and coverage for the low income and homeless, and creating wellness programs. These organizations include:
The American Cancer Society,
The DeKalb County School System,
Morehouse School of Medicine,
St. Joseph's Mercy Care Services and
the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.
(Following is a listing of all community organizations receiving Kaiser Permanente grant funds.)
Grant Recipients
Below are all community organizations that received end-of-year grant funds from Kaiser
Permanente. AID Atlanta Hands of Hope Clinic, Inc.
American Cancer Society Hebron Community Health Center
Center for Black Women's Wellness, Inc. Kennesaw State University Foundation
Center for Community Based Partnership McIntosh Trail Community Service Board
Clayton College and State University Medical Network for Education and Research
Clayton County Board of Health Mercer University School of Pharmacy
Cobb/Douglas Board of Health Ministries United for Service and Training
DeKalb Community Service Board Morehouse School of Medicine
DeKalb County Board of Education Oakhurst Medical Centers, Inc.
DeKalb County Board of Health Saint Joseph's Mercy Care Services, Inc.
Fulton County Department of Health Southside Medical Center, and Wellness Inc.
Fulton Life Enrichment Foundation, Inc. Sweetwater Valley Community
Action Mission Program, Inc.
Georgia Highlands Medical Services, Inc. The Arch Foundation for the University of Georgia
Georgia Mountains Community Services Board The Atlanta Women's Foundation
Georgia Perimeter College The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta
Georgia State University The Good Samaritan Health Center, Inc.
Good Shepherd Clinic, Inc. The Road to Recovery, Inc.
Grant Park Family Health Center, Inc. West End Medical Centers, Inc.
Gwinnett County Board of Health YMCA of Metro Atlanta
Gwinnett Hospital System, Inc. YWCA of Greater Atlanta
Friday, December 21, 2007
Governor Perdue Recognizes Hunters for the Hungry Program
Today Governor Sonny Perdue recognized the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program and the success of the multi-agency initiative by serving the millionth meal to those in need at the Community Concerns Outreach Center in Atlanta.
“The success of the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program is evidence of what can be accomplished when our state agencies and nonprofit organizations work together,” said Governor Perdue. “Serving the millionth meal this holiday season reminds us all of the importance of giving to those in need by donating to our state food banks. It is our hope that through the continued success of this program, millions more protein-rich meals will be served to Georgians in need.”
Ground venison prepared in the form of chili, lasagna and burgers, donated and processed through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, has become a holiday staple on the menu of Georgia’s food banks for the past 15 years. Representatives from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Georgia State Association of Food Banks, the Georgia Wildlife Federation (GWF) and the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) were on hand to celebrate this millionth meal milestone.
The Georgia Hunters for the Hungry (GHFTH) program begins each September at the opening of deer season, offering hunters across the state an opportunity to donate low-fat, low-cholesterol venison to benefit those in need. Participating processors collect and prepare the highly nutritious venison for statewide distribution through the Georgia State Association of Food Banks.
DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), along with the Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Wildlife Federation and the Georgia State Association of Food Banks sponsor the GFHTH program, providing hunters of all ages a unique opportunity to utilize their hunting skills to benefit others.
This season’s collection opportunities are ongoing and hunters can continue to make donations through Jan. 1, 2008. The following eight locations will accept donations through the first of the year:
· Hoboken – Big Creek Sausage Co., Inc., Rt. 1, Box 146-A, (912) 458-2120
· Jefferson – Sealey’s Deer Cooler, 5675 South Apple Valley Road, (706) 335-9304
· Sparta – Garner’s Grinder, Rt. 3, Box 464-2, (706) 444-9228
· Columbus – Daffin’s Meat Processing, 4100 ½ River Bend Road, (706) 322-8848
· Irwinton – Starley’s Deer Processing, 190 George Hatcher Road, (478) 946-8976
· Vidalia – Stewart’s Quality Meats, 204 Washington Street, (912) 537-9888
· Tifton – Safety-Rite Foods, 147 Ridge Avenue S, (229) 382-1242
· Douglasville – Douglasville Retail Meat & Smokehouse, 3749 Kings Hwy., (770) 947-6624
All hunters who donate a deer during this collection period will be entered into a drawing for a deer rifle, sponsored by the Georgia Wildlife Federation.
Over the past 15 years, participation has steadily increased, and since 1993 hunters have donated more than 7,000 deer, totaling more than 200,000 pounds of ground venison.
For more information on the GHFTH program, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com , contact a WRD Game Management Office or call (770) 761-3045. For more information on donating food to those in need, call the Atlanta Community Food Bank at (404) 892-FEED.
“The success of the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program is evidence of what can be accomplished when our state agencies and nonprofit organizations work together,” said Governor Perdue. “Serving the millionth meal this holiday season reminds us all of the importance of giving to those in need by donating to our state food banks. It is our hope that through the continued success of this program, millions more protein-rich meals will be served to Georgians in need.”
Ground venison prepared in the form of chili, lasagna and burgers, donated and processed through the Georgia Hunters for the Hungry program, has become a holiday staple on the menu of Georgia’s food banks for the past 15 years. Representatives from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Georgia State Association of Food Banks, the Georgia Wildlife Federation (GWF) and the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) were on hand to celebrate this millionth meal milestone.
The Georgia Hunters for the Hungry (GHFTH) program begins each September at the opening of deer season, offering hunters across the state an opportunity to donate low-fat, low-cholesterol venison to benefit those in need. Participating processors collect and prepare the highly nutritious venison for statewide distribution through the Georgia State Association of Food Banks.
DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division (WRD), along with the Georgia Department of Corrections, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Wildlife Federation and the Georgia State Association of Food Banks sponsor the GFHTH program, providing hunters of all ages a unique opportunity to utilize their hunting skills to benefit others.
This season’s collection opportunities are ongoing and hunters can continue to make donations through Jan. 1, 2008. The following eight locations will accept donations through the first of the year:
· Hoboken – Big Creek Sausage Co., Inc., Rt. 1, Box 146-A, (912) 458-2120
· Jefferson – Sealey’s Deer Cooler, 5675 South Apple Valley Road, (706) 335-9304
· Sparta – Garner’s Grinder, Rt. 3, Box 464-2, (706) 444-9228
· Columbus – Daffin’s Meat Processing, 4100 ½ River Bend Road, (706) 322-8848
· Irwinton – Starley’s Deer Processing, 190 George Hatcher Road, (478) 946-8976
· Vidalia – Stewart’s Quality Meats, 204 Washington Street, (912) 537-9888
· Tifton – Safety-Rite Foods, 147 Ridge Avenue S, (229) 382-1242
· Douglasville – Douglasville Retail Meat & Smokehouse, 3749 Kings Hwy., (770) 947-6624
All hunters who donate a deer during this collection period will be entered into a drawing for a deer rifle, sponsored by the Georgia Wildlife Federation.
Over the past 15 years, participation has steadily increased, and since 1993 hunters have donated more than 7,000 deer, totaling more than 200,000 pounds of ground venison.
For more information on the GHFTH program, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com , contact a WRD Game Management Office or call (770) 761-3045. For more information on donating food to those in need, call the Atlanta Community Food Bank at (404) 892-FEED.
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